InstructionsKnitting the CupcakeUsing brown yarn and circular needles, cast on 80 stitches. Place marker and join into the round, being careful that your stitches are not twisted. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.

Knitting the FrostingChange to cream and knit one round. Next Round: *Purl 3, make a frosting bobble*; repeat between the asterisks until the end of the round.

Add the novelty yarn here, if sprinkles are desired. Continue to work inreverse stockinette (purling every round) until hat measures 3 inches from the beginning, or desired length to crown.

Work decrease rounds as follows, changing to DPN’s when necessary:Round 1: Purl 6, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 2: Purl to the marker.Round 3: Purl 5, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 4: Purl to the marker.Round 5: Purl 4, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 6: Purl to the marker.Round 7: Purl 3, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 8: Purl to the marker.Round 9: Purl 2, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 10: Purl to the marker.Round 11: Purl 1, p2tog; repeat to the marker.Round 12: Purl to the marker.Round 13: P2tog; repeat to the marker.

Cut yarn and thread onto a tapestry needle. Run the tapestry needle through the remaining stitches the same direction you would if you were knitting them. Pull tight and weave in ends.

Putting the Cherry on Top!Using red yarn and Clover 1” Pom-Pom Maker, make a cherry for the top. When you attach the cherry, I suggest just tying it on with a bow on the inside, so you can remove it when you need to wash the hat.

I’ve received lots of positive feedback regarding doing some knit-a-longs this summer. Although only a couple specific sweater suggestions have been given…

One idea I received is to have 3 different sweaters to choose from, but not limit them to a certain month. Knitter A might choose to knit just one of the designs, and take all summer to do it…no problem! Knitter B might choose to knit two of the designs we’ve chosen…no problem! And Knitter C (you know who you are!!!) might just knit all 3 choices and be itching to start on a fourth before the end of August…no problem!

Let’s keep it informal and fun and as non-competitive as possible (although a little healthy competition is good for you, right?!)

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

I’d like to do some knit-a-longs this summer on Saturdays at the shop, and I would really love your input on what you want to make.

I would like to focus on a different sweater each month (June-July-August). This will be an informal time to gather together, ask questions, get support (both technical and moral!) and just have fun together.

I’ll be offering a 15% discount if you purchase your yarn for the knit-a-long at The Naked Sheep.

Please leave your comments and ideas here. I'll let you know what we decide in the next newsletter!

Saturday, May 9, 2009

This was such a great pattern to knit. Ripple, a free pattern on Knitty.

I used 2 skeins of Invernal from Aslan Trends in this super nummy pink.

The base of the scarf is basically entrelac, with a 2-tiered ruffle all around the edges. It was so fun to make, and the construction was so interesting. I'm going to teach the class this summer at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. It will be on Wednesdays in July...check it out!